26 Oktober 2013

Armed Forces Get RM13.2 Billion To Tighten Border Security

26 Oktober 2013

AV-8, 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicle (photo : Malaysian Defence)KUALA LUMPUR, (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Armed Forces received RM13.2 billion to tighten border security in the Budget 2014.Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the allocation showed that the government's priority to eradicate foreign threats which can jeopardise national security.The government also allocated RM2.4 billion to add six Offshore Patrol Vessels, four cargo planes, tanks and support equipment towards this end."RM75 million has been allocated for 2014 to sustain ESSCOM (Eastern Sabah Security Command) operations," he said while tabling the Budget 2014 at the Dewan Rakyat Friday.Najib also touched upon the armed intrusion in Lahad Datu and described it as a tragic blot on Malaysia's history.He recorded the highest appreciation for the sacrifices and service of the soldiers and security forces in defending national sovereignty.The Prime Minister said RM48 million was allocated for the welfare of 20,000 armed forces veterans to cover medical treatment, ex-gratia and education, in appreciation of their contributions.Najib also announced RM202 million to build and restore armed forces quarters, as well as school buses for the children in place of army trucks.